Bahamas Ambassador to Cuba Alma Adams on Tuesday expressed condolences to the family of Lyford Cay Foundation Chairman Manuel Cutillas, who died of a heart attack in Panama over the weekend.

He was 81.

Cutillas, a former chairman of the Bacardi rum and spirits group and long-time resident of The Bahamas, was a native of Cuba.

Prime Minister Perry Christie recently praised him for his “significant” contribution to The Bahamas’ development as well as his civic and philanthropic contributions.

“I was afforded the opportunity to meet Mr. Cutillas just prior to departing The Bahamas to commence my tour of duty as ambassador of The Bahamas to the Republic of Cuba. On that occasion, I recall being quite impressed with him as a native son of Cuba, as he enlightened me in depth, concerning the history, culture, industry and natural beauty of Cuba,” Ms. Adams said.

“In retrospect, as I now reflect on the discourse of that day and as I am presently being made aware of his work with regard to the many scholarships awarded to Bahamian students via the Lyford Cay Foundation, I can understand and appreciate him even better, because he personified the essence of the importance of good quality education, as is evident in Cuba today, being made available to young people at all cost.”

Cutillas is survived by his wife, Rosa and son Jorge.